TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Legendary climber Alex Honnold will attempt a daring feat on Jan. 24, scaling Taipei 101 without ropes or safety nets. Netflix will broadcast the event live, showcasing Honnold's every move as he tackles the 1,667-foot structure. Taipei 101 Chairwoman Chia Yeong-chieh (賈永婕) expressed her excitement on Tuesday (Jan. 14), sharing Netflix's trailer and noting the unprecedented nature of the event.
Honnold will climb the skyscraper's exterior, scaling all 101 floors of the 1,667-foot structure, comprised of glass, steel, and concrete. He acknowledged the unique challenges posed by the building's verticality and repetitive structure, which differ significantly from natural rock formations. He admitted that this could be the most unpredictable challenge yet, highlighting the skyscraper's steepness and the physical demands it imposes.
Honnold emphasized the significance of obtaining official permission to climb such a landmark, describing Taipei 101 as both remarkable and structurally feasible. He identified the "bamboo boxes" section, consisting of eight outward-leaning structures, as the most challenging part of the climb. Honnold aims not only to reach the summit but also to savor the experience, hoping to finish the climb uninjured, with dignity, and a smile.
Netflix's live program, "Alex Honnold Skyscraper: Live," will run for approximately two hours, capturing Honnold's climb without edits. Veteran sports anchor Elle Duncan will host the event, joined by professional climber Emily Harrington, climbing commentator Pete Woods, and WWE wrestler Seth Rollins, who will provide real-time analysis and technical insights.
